Riwaka Hops

Riwaka Hops: The Secret Sauce for Spectacular IPAs

Reading Time: around 15 min

You’ve probably heard whispers of Riwaka hops in the wind (or more likely, over a pint) and trust me, it’s a hop that’s deserving of the chatter. Released by New Zealand growers in 1996, this variety is the life of the party in the hop world.

Imagine taking those famous old Czech Saaz hops.

Giving them a New Zealand twist…

…and boom – out comes Riwaka!

Ready to knock your taste buds into a new dimension.

Riwaka is like the tropical vacation of hops. Close your eyes, take a whiff, and you’ll be greeted with a powerful blast of grapefruit and passion fruit. These are not your granddad’s hops; they’re bold, they’re brash. 

And they’ve got more citrus character than a Florida orange grove. 

Now, if you’re brewing your next batch and seeking hops that bring the zest, these Kiwi gems are perfect for pilsners that ain’t playing it safe. Or IPAs that need a passport for their hop profile.

Key Takeaways

  • Riwaka hops from New Zealand burst onto the scene in 1996 with a lively personality.
  • They boast an aroma profile that’s a first-class ticket to Flavor Island.
    • Making them ideal for IPAs and adventurous pilsners.
  • If zesty, citrus-forward brews are your jam, Riwaka is your hop-tastic dance partner.

 

The Origin and Background of Riwaka Hops

Let me give you the lowdown. Riwaka hops are New Zealand’s aromatic gift to the beer world. Exploding with zesty flavors perfect for crafting a brew that stands out in a crowd.

A Dive into the Kiwi Hops Heritage

Kiwi hops aren’t your average Joe; they’re the cool kids on the block. Riwaka is a proud product of New Zealand. A place where hops seem to soak up that unique Kiwi charm to burst with flavors that send beer aficionados into a frenzy. 

They’re like the party-starters of the hop family.

Making sure your beer is never a snooze fest.

Riwaka’s Family Tree: Breeding and Genetics

When it comes to Riwaka’s lineage, think of it as the lovechild of that noble Saaz hop. Which brings the traditional spice to the table, and a suave New Zealand-developed plant. Adding a tropical twist. It’s a bit like bringing a knife to a fruit fight.

Surprising yet brilliantly effective. Here’s the skinny on its parentage:

  • Saazer Parent: Old-world charm, meeting…
  • New Zealand Breeding Selections: …new-world pizzazz.

 

This charming hop with global appeal owes its existence to the breeding programs designed to create ‘hops with a difference’. And boy, did they hit the jackpot with Riwaka! Setting foot in the brewing scene back in ’97.

Riwaka hops pack a around-average oil content, almost giving their Saazer parent a run for its money. So, graft a bit of the Old World with New Zealand’s joie de vivre, and voilà. A hop variety that’s like a citrusy tropical vacation in a pint glass.

The Alchemist’s Corner: Acids and Oils

Your adventure into the Riwaka hops’ inner sanctum begins here.

Where the acids aren’t just for science geeks.

And the oils are more than a slippery subject!

Main Characteristics

  • Purpose: Aroma
  • Aromas: Citrus, Tropical, Grapefruit, Passion Fruit
  • Notes: Noble Saaz-like, Floral, Herbal, Spicy
  • Alpha-acids: 4.5% – 6.5% [bitterness added through boiling]
  • Beta-acids: 4.0% – 5.0% [bitterness added through maturation]
  • Cohumulone: 29% – 38% of alpha-acids [bitterness profile: low = smooth, high = sharp]
  • Hops oil breakdown: 0.8 – 1.5 mL / 100g [responsible for flavors and aromas]
    • Myrcene: 55% – 70% [resinous, citrus, fruity]
    • Humulene: 5% – 15% [noble, woody, spicy]
    • Caryophyllene: 2% – 7% [spicy, piney, herbal]
    • Farnesene: 0.5% – 1% [fresh, green, floral]
Riwaka Hops - graphic summary

Going Alpha: Acids in Focus

Alpha acids are the rock stars of the brewing world. And Riwaka hops strut a fairly balanced act with an alpha acid range that isn’t bashful about cranking up the bitterness. Think of alpha acids as the headliners at a beer festival.

They bring the punchy bitterness that’s crucial for styles like IPAs. And with Riwaka, you’re getting alpha acid levels that could range anywhere between 4.5-6.5%. Really laying down a solid base for that hoppy hit.

The Beta Side: Often Overlooked but Equally Important

Now, let’s talk about beta acids. Often playing second fiddle.

They’re like the bass players of the hop world. Beta acids in Riwaka might hover around 4.0-5.0% but don’t let this fool you. They contribute to the hop stability and complexity of the beer’s aroma.

Working in the background to make sure your brew stands the test of time.

Remember, no truly great band is complete without that bass groove.

Oil Content and Composition: Why It Matters

When it comes to oil content, Riwaka hops are like the life of the party, rich in the essential oils that give beer its character and flair. With rather low oil content, Riwaka brings a citrusy, tropical extravaganza to your nose and palate.

Making other hops seem like they’re just there to fill the space.

Here’s a breakdown of these liquid gems:

  • Total Oil: Rather low to medium oiled, but no stinginess here!
  • Myrcene: This is your citrus and tropical godfather, leading the aroma hit parade.
  • Humulene & Caryophyllene: These buddies tag team to add a noble dash of the herbal and spicy whispers to the mix.
  • Farnesene: Barely there, but when it shows up, expect subtle floral hints.
  • Co-Humulone: Its levels can affect how the bitterness feels, but Riwaka plays nice. Offering smoothness without too much edge.

 

Your beer’s flavor and aroma mojo comes from these oils. So if you want your brews to have the sensory appeal of a tropical beach party, high-five the Riwaka and watch the magic happen!

The Sensory Profile: Aromas and Flavors Galore

Let’s dive into the riot of flavors and aromas that Riwaka hops unleash in a beer. Guaranteeing a sensory fiesta that’ll have your tastebuds tangoing. Doubts? Hold onto your flip-flops.

Tantalizing Tastebuds with Citrus and Tropical Fruits

Flavor: It’s like biting into a vivacious variety of fruits. 

Picture this, you’re lounging on a tropical beach with a fruit basket:

  • Grapefruit – Tangy and bold
  • Passion Fruit – Tropical memory
  • Citrus notes – Sharp, zesty, and oh-so-refreshing
  • Tropical fruit – It’s a jungle of taste in there
  • Subtle notes of floral, herbal and spice too

 

When used in brewing, Riwaka is your one-way ticket to an island holiday. And the beer glass is your passport. Figuratively, we’re not promising any free trips. But this is as close as it gets.

The Complicated Chemistry of Riwaka Aromatics

  • Alpha acids: Don’t let the science talk scare you; these acids are just flavor superheroes waiting to swoop in.
  • Oil content: Double that of its relatives, making Riwaka as juicy as a soap opera storyline.

 

That sweet citrus note? It’s like a serenade for your senses. One whiff, and you’ll detect that zesty grapefruit and aromatic passion fruit having a party. And trust me, they really do throw the best parties.

Riwaka’s Role in Beer Styles and Brewing

Buckle up, mate, because we’re about to take a tasty trip through the hoppy highways of Riwaka. Known for its kick of tropical passion fruit and bold citrusy notes, this New Zealand gem is turning heads in the craft beer world.

Let’s dive into which beer styles showcase Riwaka hops…

…like a rockstar on the main stage.

Riwaka Hops Beers

The Quintessential Companions: IPAs and Pale Ales

Pale Ales and IPAs (India Pale Ales), you’re in for a treat! Riwaka hops are the unsung heroes that’ll zoom your taste buds straight to flavor town with their high oil content and distinctive punch. Picture this.

A cold, crisp IPA with a slap of grapefruit, a twist of lime zest, and a whisper of tropical fruit. Seriously, is there anything else to ask for? That’s the Riwaka showpiece. Hands down.

  • Key Flavors: Grapefruit, citrus, passion fruit and tropical notes
  • Ideal Beer Style: American IPA, New England IPA, and classic Pale Ales

 

Tossing in Riwaka during the late boil or as a dry-hop addition can launch your pale creations into the stratosphere of taste. Trust me, your IPA or Pale Ale will thank you with every sip.

Beyond Ales: Exploring Lager and Pilsner Pairings

But wait, there’s more! Fancy a dance with lagers or pilsners?

Riwaka can take the lead here too. Even though it’s a descendant of the Saaz hop, Riwaka spins its own yarn with a zesty twang. The one that can make a bohemian-style pilsner do the hoppy jig.

  • Lager Love: An Imperial Pilsner with a twist of Riwaka’s tropical charm
  • Pilsner Pairing: Adding Riwaka to Bohemian Pilsners for a new wave of refreshment

 

With Riwaka in your brew, expect a lager or pilsner that’s not just another face in the crowd. It’s a concoction that’ll make you forget “boring” ever existed in your beer vocabulary.

Riwaka’s Impact on Bitterness and Beer Structure

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty – bitterness and structure. You know the IBU, right? International Bitterness Units. Well, Riwaka may not be the bully of bitterness, but it sure knows how to give your beer backbone and character.

  • IBU Insight: Not too intense, but just enough to give your brew a swift kick
  • Structural Savvy: Perfect for adding complexity without overwhelming bitterness

 

Here’s the scoop: Riwaka won’t turn your beer into a bitter beast. Instead, it finesses it with a balance of flavor and structure. So, if you’re looking to craft a beer that’s got both personality and poise, this hop has your back.

Now, remember, beer is like fingerprints. 

No two are the same, especially with Riwaka in the mix! But isn’t that the whole point? So go forth, experiment, and may your brews be as lively and spirited as the Riwaka hop itself. Cheers to that!

Hopping Stages and Amounts

Buddy, pull up a barstool and let me spin you a yarn about Riwaka hops. These New Zealand natives are the hop equivalent of a Kiwi rugby player. Bold, zesty, and a total knockout in the flavor scrum. So, let’s brew up a storm with Riwaka…

…and make some beer that’ll have your taste buds doing the haka!

First up, let’s talk Pilsner. Not just any Pilsner, but the kind that shines brighter than a disco ball at a ’70s party. Riwaka’s gonna be the life of this party with its punchy grapefruit and citrus notes. Hashtag contemporary.

Toss in about 0.75 to a full ounce at the last 15 minutes of your boil to give it that zesty zing. It’s like a citrus ninja slicing through the maltiness. Stealthy, sharp, and totally unexpected follow up.

But wait, there’s more! 

When it’s time to mellow out, add another half-ounce for a dry hop session that’s more chill than a penguin in an ice bath. This is where Riwaka whispers sweet nothings to your brew. Leaving a fragrance that’ll have you begging for another round.

Now, brace yourself for a Pale Ale that’s as adventurous as a bungee jump in Queenstown. We’re not just adding hops; we’re creating an experience. Start the show with an ounce of Riwaka at the beginning of the boil to lay down a solid bitterness.

Smoother than a jazz saxophonist in velvet pants.

Then, as the curtain falls on the boil, it’s time for an encore. Throw in another ounce with five minutes to go. This is the hoppy high note that’ll have your Pale Ale singing louder than your legendary karaoke performance.

And because we always save the best for last, get ready for the grand finale. Dry hopping with two ounces of Riwaka post-fermentation. This is where the magic happens, my friend. It’s like a flavor firework show in your fermenter.

With every hop cone bursting with passionfruit and citrus.

Style Name

Brewing Stage

Min of Oz per gallon

Max of Oz per gallon

Min of Oz per batch [5gal]

Max of Oz per batch [5gal]

Average of Oz per gallon

American IPA

Aroma

0.03

0.64

0.15

3.18

0.2

 

Bittering

0.06

0.23

0.31

1.16

0.17

 

Dry Hop

0.07

0.91

0.33

4.55

0.27

 

First Wort

0.11

0.29

0.53

1.43

0.2

 

Flavor

0.04

0.67

0.18

3.34

0.16

 

Hop Stand

0.19

0.19

0.93

0.95

0.19

 

Whirlpool

0.06

0.8

0.28

4.01

0.23

American IPA Total

 

0.03

0.91

0.15

4.55

0.23

American Pale Ale

Aroma

0.07

0.38

0.33

1.91

0.18

 

Bittering

0.03

0.14

0.17

0.7

0.09

 

Dry Hop

0.07

0.61

0.35

3.03

0.24

 

Flavor

0.07

0.2

0.33

1

0.13

 

Whirlpool

0.06

0.49

0.29

2.43

0.22

American Pale Ale Total

 

0.03

0.61

0.17

3.03

0.2

New England IPA

Aroma

0.03

0.53

0.15

2.67

0.19

 

Bittering

0.1

0.26

0.5

1.3

0.18

 

Dry Hop

0.1

1.2

0.5

6

0.4

 

First Wort

0.03

0.25

0.15

1.27

0.14

 

Flavor

0.05

0.13

0.25

0.67

0.08

 

Whirlpool

0.09

1

0.45

5

0.39

New England IPA Total

 

0.03

1.2

0.15

6

0.32

German Pilsner

Aroma

0.05

0.27

0.27

1.34

0.11

 

Bittering

0.17

0.32

0.87

1.59

0.25

 

Dry Hop

0.11

0.29

0.56

1.45

0.18

 

First Wort

0.11

0.15

0.56

0.74

0.13

 

Flavor

0.05

0.15

0.27

0.74

0.1

 

Whirlpool

0.12

0.29

0.58

1.45

0.21

German Pilsner Total

 

0.05

0.32

0.27

1.59

0.14

International Pale Lager

Aroma

0.12

0.2

0.6

1

0.16

 

Bittering

0.12

0.36

0.58

1.8

0.19

 

Dry Hop

0.09

0.32

0.44

1.6

0.2

 

Flavor

0.11

0.58

0.56

2.9

0.35

 

Whirlpool

0.12

0.26

0.58

1.31

0.19

International Pale Lager Total

 

0.09

0.58

0.44

2.9

0.2

Blonde Ale

Aroma

0.12

0.35

0.61

1.76

0.23

 

Bittering

0.18

0.32

0.88

1.6

0.27

 

Dry Hop

0.1

0.73

0.5

3.64

0.44

 

Flavor

0.05

0.18

0.23

0.91

0.12

 

Whirlpool

0.1

0.36

0.5

1.82

0.22

Blonde Ale Total

 

0.05

0.73

0.23

3.64

0.28

Style Name

Brewing Stage

Min of Grams per liter

Max of Grams per liter

Min of Grams per batch [20ltr]

Max of Grams per batch [20ltr]

Average of Grams per liter

American IPA

Aroma

0.22

4.76

4.35

95.24

1.49

 

Bittering

0.46

1.74

9.21

34.78

1.31

 

Dry Hop

0.49

6.81

9.76

136.17

2.03

 

First Wort

0.8

2.14

16

42.86

1.47

 

Flavor

0.26

5

5.26

100

1.22

 

Hop Stand

1.4

1.43

27.91

28.57

1.42

 

Whirlpool

0.42

6

8.42

120

1.73

American IPA Total

 

0.22

6.81

4.35

136.17

1.69

American Pale Ale

Aroma

0.5

2.86

10

57.14

1.36

 

Bittering

0.26

1.05

5.2

21.05

0.66

 

Dry Hop

0.53

4.55

10.53

90.91

1.76

 

Flavor

0.5

1.5

10

30

0.94

 

Whirlpool

0.43

3.63

8.7

72.7

1.68

American Pale Ale Total

 

0.26

4.55

5.2

90.91

1.49

New England IPA

Aroma

0.22

4

4.44

80

1.42

 

Bittering

0.75

1.95

14.98

39.05

1.38

 

Dry Hop

0.75

8.99

14.98

179.74

3.02

 

First Wort

0.22

1.9

4.44

38.1

1.06

 

Flavor

0.37

1

7.49

20

0.59

 

Whirlpool

0.67

7.49

13.46

149.78

2.9

New England IPA Total

 

0.22

8.99

4.44

179.74

2.42

German Pilsner

Aroma

0.4

2

8

40

0.8

 

Bittering

1.3

2.38

26.09

47.62

1.84

 

Dry Hop

0.83

2.17

16.67

43.48

1.35

 

First Wort

0.83

1.11

16.67

22.22

0.97

 

Flavor

0.4

1.11

8

22.22

0.73

 

Whirlpool

0.87

2.17

17.39

43.48

1.58

German Pilsner Total

 

0.4

2.38

8

47.62

1.06

International Pale Lager

Aroma

0.89

1.49

17.86

29.84

1.21

 

Bittering

0.87

2.69

17.39

53.88

1.44

 

Dry Hop

0.65

2.39

13.04

47.83

1.46

 

Flavor

0.83

4.35

16.67

86.96

2.59

 

Whirlpool

0.87

1.96

17.39

39.13

1.46

International Pale Lager Total

 

0.65

4.35

13.04

86.96

1.48

Blonde Ale

Aroma

0.91

2.63

18.18

52.63

1.71

 

Bittering

1.32

2.4

26.32

48.03

2.04

 

Dry Hop

0.75

5.45

15

109.09

3.28

 

Flavor

0.35

1.36

7

27.23

0.86

 

Whirlpool

0.75

2.72

15

54.47

1.68

Blonde Ale Total

 

0.35

5.45

7

109.09

2.13

*This data consists of hundreds of thousands of manually input recipes and, despite best efforts, they may contain errors leading to very high max amounts, or be someone’s attempt for experimental brew. You should consider this data more as an overview of how different ingredients were used for different styles to get inspiration. Please do not attempt to add up different lines as it’s all about proportions.

Brewing Techniques and Tips with Riwaka

Riwaka hops are like the secret sauce to your gourmet burger, elevating your brew from good to unforgettable. Let’s turn that ho-hum beer into a tropical extravaganza!

The Hop Addition Timing Tango

Got your dancing shoes on? Timing your Riwaka additions is like nailing the perfect dance move. Toss ’em in late during the boil, and you’re hitting high notes of passion fruit and grapefruit without overwhelming bitterness. 

Think last 5-10 minutes or at flameout. Here’s the deal:

  • 5 minutes before end of boil: Enhanced aroma with lil bitterness
  • Flameout: Maximum aroma, even less bitterness

 

Dry Hopping: Not Just Dropping Hops into the Fermenter

Dry hopping with Riwaka is like adding glitter to a party. It’s when the magic happens. But it’s not as simple as chucking hops into the fermenter and calling it a day. Aim for about 3 to 5 days before you plan to bottle or keg your brew. 

This timing is crucial to capture the knockout aromas…

…without any grassy off-flavors stepping on toes.

Balancing the Bitter: Managing Alpha Acids

Riwaka may not be the heavyweight champion of alpha acids, but it packs a punch in the aroma department. You’ll want to manage its moderate alpha acid level, keeping an eye on your IBUs. You know the drill.

Remember, a lower alpha acid amount means you’re swinging for aroma, not bitterness. Keep your IBUs in check, and you’ll have a beer that tickles the nostrils and pleases the palate without the bitter face.

The Homebrewer’s Notebook

Alright, let’s dive into the tropical essence of Riwaka hops.

The ultimate goal? To transform your garage into a mini Kiwi brewery. Let’s get your brew day bubbling with anecdotes, secrets, and the perfect hop stand-ins! It doesn’t get any better.

Crafting Your Own Kiwi-Style Brew

Bust out the Vienna malt and get your mash paddle ready. You’re aiming for a mash temperature that’s as cozy as a New Zealand sheep’s wool. Around 152°F (67°C) to give your beer a balanced sweetness that’ll jazz up those Riwaka hops.

Yeast is your fermentation friend, always hungry for sugars.

Choose a clean, attenuative strain that won’t clash with Riwaka’s loud tropical vibes. Keep a watchful eye on your hydrometer measurement and let the fermentation temperature hover just right. Like a surfer finding the sweet spot of a wave.

Shoot for 68–72°F (20–22°C).

Playing Matchmaker Part 1: Finding Perfect Substitutions

If Riwaka hops have ghosted you at the homebrew shop, don’t cry into your wort just yet. Substitutions are like dating apps for your beer. Citra swings in with its grapefruity zest, and Centennial’s citrus-floral notes might just make you swipe right. 

Remember, it’s all about keeping the essence of those Kiwi hops. 

So play the field until you find the one that makes your taste buds tingle!

Playing Matchmaker Part 2: With Whom to Dance

Riwaka hops are about to rock your brewing world. This New Zealand superstar is known for its powerful grapefruit and tropical fruit aromas, making it a fantastic choice for creating vibrant, juicy brews. But why stop at just one hop…

…when you can create a symphony of flavors?

One of the most popular dance partners for Riwaka is none other than Mosaic®. These two together are like a tropical fruit salad in your glass – simply irresistible.

Riwaka also plays nicely with its Kiwi cousin, Nelson Sauvin. Throw some Citra into the mix, and you’ve got a hop trio that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance!

For those looking to experiment, some homebrewers have found success pairing Riwaka with Simcoe for a unique flavor profile. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try combining Riwaka with other tropical fruit-forward hops like Galaxy or Waimea? 

The possibilities are endless, and the results are bound to be delicious!

So go ahead, mix and match, and let Riwaka lead the hop parade in your next brew.

Your taste buds will thank you!

Eccentric Brews: The Oddballs of the Riwaka World

You know Riwaka hops have that eye-popping, tropical punch that can make even the most stoic brewer do a little dance of joy. But let me tell you, some homebrewers are pushing the envelope, turning Riwaka into the Picasso of the hop world.

  • The Passion Fruit Pilsner: Who said pilsners had to be boring? With Riwaka’s unique flavors, this pilsner is a Houdini act that surprises with every sip.
  • Riwaka’s Radler Remix: Imagine your favorite citrusy radler. Now imagine it hyped up on Riwaka with passion fruit coming along. Right? You’re welcome.
  • The Riwaka Single Hop Saison: This isn’t your granddaddy’s saison. It’s a tropical citrusy getaway in a bottle, courtesy of our hero, Riwaka.

 

So gear up, brewmaster-in-arms, and let’s make some beer that’s as legendary as a Kiwi adventure. With Riwaka in your hop arsenal, you’re not just brewing; you’re crafting a masterpiece. To the hop that’s more New Zealand than a Hobbit in a kayak.

Picture of Damian

Damian

A lifelong learner, hop enthusiast and a lover of the state of extreme exhaustion.

Finance Analyst in the Investment Bank and co-founder of hopsmatcher.com